Oxford United's start to the New Year was a disappointment, as their game at Rushden & Diamonds scheduled for this afternoon was postponed because of a frozen pitch. The announcement was broadcast just after 1pm, with most of the estimated 1,800 Oxford fans already en route.

This is the second time United and Rushden have failed to play this season, as the game at the Kas on Boxing Day was also called off because of a frozen pitch. This is in addition to both games against Cambridge United which have had to be rescheduled, and the home game against Hayes & Yeading United.

The postponement could see United relinquish their lead of the Conference for the first time this season, as Stevenage Borough's game against Cambridge United is still on. Other games that have fallen by the wayside are Altrincham v Wrexham, Chester City v Kidderminster Harriers, Tamworth v Kettering Town, and Salisbury City (where United played on Monday) v Histon. This means that the next time that Oxford are in action is a week tomorrow, when they welcome Woking for the FA Trophy second round.